RAPID CITY, S.D. — A Black Hills production company that has become a major player in regional concerts and events is expanding its services after acquiring a local backline company and is now looking to hire additional help.

Jason Hoar, owner of Powerhouse Productions and a partner in Depot Music Productions, recently finalized the acquisition of Dakota Backline, a company that provides instruments and stage equipment for touring musicians and live performances.

The company purchased Dakota Backline from longtime owner Don Lerdal, a musician and gear specialist known throughout the region for supplying equipment to artists performing in the Black Hills.

“We acquired it from Don Lerdal,” Hoar said. “Working with him over the years, it was always one thing I didn’t have to worry about. I knew it was handled. When he decided he was ready to step away, we had a conversation and figured out how to make the transition.”

Backline companies provide many of the instruments and gear artists need when traveling to a show. Instead of transporting bulky equipment across the country, musicians can request specific drums, amplifiers, keyboards or other instruments waiting for them at the venue.

“In simple terms, it’s everything the musician touches on stage,” Hoar said. “A band might fly in and say they need a certain drum kit, a guitar amp or a piano. The backline company makes sure it’s there and ready when they arrive.”

The acquisition expands the services already offered by Powerhouse Productions and Depot Music Productions, which provide audio, lighting, video and rigging services for concerts, corporate events and festivals throughout western South Dakota.

Hoar said the companies now handle a wide range of events across the region, including concerts at venues such as Deadwood Mountain Grand and events throughout the Black Hills.

“We do sound, lighting, video, rigging and now backline,” Hoar said. “The backline just made sense because we were already advancing shows and working directly with artists and their teams.”

With the expansion, the company is also actively recruiting additional workers to keep up with demand.

“We’re starting a bit of a crusade to add to what we’re doing,” Hoar said.

Positions range from entry-level stagehands to experienced technicians in areas such as audio, lighting and video production. The company also needs drivers and crew members to assist with loading, equipment preparation and event setup.

Hoar said the industry offers opportunities for people with a wide range of skills.

“If someone’s never touched a cable before, we can teach them,” he said. “If you can retain information and you want to learn, there’s a place for you.”

He added that many people discover different specialties once they enter the field.

“We’ve had guys come in wanting to learn audio and end up becoming lighting technicians,” Hoar said. “There are a lot of paths in this industry.”

The company also offers opportunities for part-time workers or those seeking occasional event work.

“Some people just want to pick up a few shows here and there,” Hoar said. “Others want to make a career out of it. We’ve had both.”

Those interested in working with the company or learning more about its services can contact Powerhouse Productions by email at PowerhousePro1188@gmail.com.